Chatbot gives teens first-hand experience of cybergrooming tactics without the risk of harm

Researchers have developed an artificial intelligence chatbot that safely simulates the progressive stages of cybergrooming, shifting the focus from identifying online predators to proactively empowering teens to recognize escalating advances and practice protective boundary setting. The tool was informed by study findings revealing that 60% of surveyed teens experienced online sexual solicitation—a prevalence substantially underestimated by parents. For educators and practitioners, this project highlights new interactive, experiential models for adolescent digital safety and risk-prevention education.

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